Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon

Name: Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or non-dairy milk); 2 apples, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil); 2 large eggs

Highlighted under: Naturally Nourishing

I absolutely love starting my mornings with Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cinnamon. It's the perfect balance of wholesome oats, sweet apples, and warming spices that fuels my day right. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also fills my kitchen with a heavenly aroma that truly makes the whole home feel inviting. I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, as it reheats beautifully in the microwave. Plus, it's a delicious way to incorporate more fiber into my breakfast routine!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:17:36.038Z

Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cinnamon has become a staple in my breakfast rotation. The first time I made it, I was amazed by how simple it was and how quickly it came together. I usually mix the oats with chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon before adding the liquid ingredients. This method ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

One specific tip I've found is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the oats to absorb some moisture, leading to a creamier texture. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Comforting combination of warm spices and sweet apples
Easy to make in advance for busy mornings
Versatile: customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits

The Role of Oats in Baked Oatmeal

Rolled oats are the backbone of this baked oatmeal, providing essential fiber and a satisfying texture. When baked, they absorb moisture and expand, creating a dense yet creamy consistency. Opting for rolled oats rather than quick oats will result in a heartier texture that's not overly mushy. If you prefer a gluten-free version, make sure your oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur during processing.

The oats also help in balancing the sweetness from the apples and brown sugar. They soak up the flavors during baking, allowing each bite to feature a harmonious blend of apple and cinnamon. If you're looking to add extra protein, you can incorporate a scoop of protein powder, keeping in mind that this might slightly alter the texture.

Customizing Your Baked Oatmeal

One of the best aspects of baked oatmeal is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different fruits, nuts, or spices based on your personal preferences or what's in season. For a nutty flavor, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans. Dried cranberries or raisins also work well; just be aware that they can add additional sweetness, so you might want to reduce the brown sugar slightly.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. I often experiment by mixing in pureed pumpkin or mashed bananas, which not only enhance the taste but also increase the nutritional value. Just remember to adjust the liquid ratios accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

Ingredients

For the Baked Oatmeal

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or non-dairy milk)
2 apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
2 large eggs

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

Incorporate Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in walnuts or raisins before baking. Alternatively, serve with a drizzle of maple syrup on top for sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Baked oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the mixture the night before and baking it in the morning. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven.

When reheating, a microwave works wonders. Simply slice a portion and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm. For a comforting breakfast experience, I like to add a splash of milk on top before reheating, which helps to revive the creaminess of the dish. Baked oatmeal also freezes well—just portion it out in individual servings, wrap tightly, and it’ll last for about three months.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked oatmeal turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not using enough liquid. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; look for a golden top but also ensure the center is set without being overly firm. If it appears dry upon checking, a little extra milk can be drizzled on top before serving to enhance moisture.

Conversely, if your oatmeal is too wet, reduce the liquid slightly in your next batch or extend the baking time by a few minutes. Oven temperatures can vary, so knowing your appliance can help you achieve that perfect golden texture. Always adjust the temperature based on visual cues rather than strictly relying on the timer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats will result in a different texture. If you prefer to use them, pre-cook them for a few minutes before adding to the mix.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative and replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze baked oatmeal?

Absolutely! Portion the oatmeal into servings and freeze. To reheat, simply microwave from frozen, adding a splash of milk if necessary.